The Senate Democats are not going to be taking up the $315 million worth of mid-year budget cuts that were the main focus of Gov. David Paterson’s lame duck session today, and they’re blaming the outgoing governor for this loss.

Conference spokesman Austin Shafran released the following statement:

“While Senate Democrats were prepared to take action to bring New York’s budget into balance, the Governor failed to submit legislation in time for thoughtful consideration and review – delivering a final bill two hours after the start of the extraordinary session he called two weeks ago.”

“Budget cuts to health care, education, and social and senior services require thorough deliberation, not a rushed process that hurts the state’s most vulnerable citizens.”

“We look forward to continuing an open dialogue about how best to resolve the extraordinary budget issues confronting New York this year and in the years to come.”

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